Senior Communications Manager

Placements24; Sandton; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Paid time off

Professional growth

Networking opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 in Sandton, Gauteng, is seeking an experienced Senior Communications Manager to lead strategy across PR, media relations, and internal comms for a prominent financial institution.

The role requires 7+ years in corporate communications, a Master’s in a related field, and a proven track record in crisis management, stakeholder engagement, and regulatory insight. You will mentor staff and manage budgets.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Business Admin, or related field.
• Minimum 7 years in corporate or strategic communications, preferably in financial services.
• Proven track record in developing and executing communication strategies, including crisis management.
• Excellent written, verbal, and presentation skills with ability to articulate complex ideas.
• Strong understanding of financial services regulations and stakeholder dynamics.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement integrated communication strategies aligned with business goals and brand objectives.
• Manage all media relations activities, including proactive outreach and crisis communications.
• Oversee internal communication programs to foster employee engagement and disseminate key messages.
• Craft press releases, speeches, executive talking points, and website copy.
• Cultivate relationships with media contacts, industry influencers, and financial analysts.
• Monitor media coverage and provide strategic recommendations based on insights.
• Collaborate with marketing, legal, and other departments to ensure cohesive messaging.
• Provide strategic counsel to senior leadership on communication matters.
• Manage communications budget and oversee external agencies or consultants.
• Lead and mentor junior communications staff and foster a culture of excellence.

Skills

Strategic leadership

Crisis management

Stakeholder engagement

Media relations

Strategic communications

Education

Master's degree in Communications/PR

Tools

PR software

Media monitoring tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent financial institution operating in Sandton, Gauteng , is seeking an experienced and strategic Senior Communications Manager . This leadership role will be responsible for developing and executing comprehensive communication strategies that enhance the company’s reputation, brand awareness, and stakeholder engagement. You will oversee all aspects of public relations, media relations, and internal communications, ensuring consistent and impactful messaging across all channels. This is a critical position within a leading organization, offering the opportunity to shape strategic narratives and drive significant communication initiatives within the bustling financial hub of Sandton . We are looking for a seasoned professional with a strong understanding of the financial services industry and a proven track record in strategic communications.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement integrated communication strategies aligned with business goals and brand objectives.
• Manage all media relations activities, including proactive media outreach and reactive crisis communications.
• Oversee internal communication programs to foster employee engagement and disseminate key organizational messages.
• Craft compelling content, including press releases, speeches, executive talking points, and website copy.
• Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with key media contacts, industry influencers, and financial analysts.
• Monitor media coverage, analyze communication effectiveness, and provide strategic recommendations.
• Collaborate with marketing, legal, and other departments to ensure cohesive and accurate messaging.
• Provide strategic counsel and support to senior leadership on communication matters.
• Manage the communications budget and oversee external agencies or consultants.
• Lead and mentor junior communications staff, fostering a culture of excellence.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in corporate communications, public relations, or strategic communications, preferably within the financial services sector.
• Proven track record of developing and executing successful communication strategies, including crisis management.
• Exceptional written, verbal, and presentation skills, with the ability to articulate complex ideas clearly.
• Deep understanding of the financial services industry and its regulatory environment.
• Strong media relations expertise and established network of contacts.
• Excellent leadership, strategic thinking, and problem-solving abilities.
• Proficiency in PR software, media monitoring tools, and digital communication platforms.

Benefits

• An excellent annual salary of R .
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
• Generous paid time off and company holidays.
• Significant opportunities for professional growth and career advancement.
• A prestigious work environment in Sandton .
• Performance-based bonuses and potential for long-term incentives.
• Access to exclusive industry events and networking opportunities.